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County Down comedian Dave Elliott is swapping the stage for the saddle as he prepares to cycle 293 miles around the north next week to raise funds and awareness for Action Mental Health. On day one Wednesday 8 October Dave will be cycling the 96 miles from Action Mental Health Newtownards to Action Mental Health offices in Downpatrick, Newry and Portadown so keep an eye out for him as he calls at AMH at Ballybot House on his way through Newry.
As the charity's newest ambassador and the public face of Break the Cycle, Dave will tackle the gruelling challenge over just three days from October 8 to 10, with his route winding its way around Action Mental Health services across Northern Ireland. The final miles will be completed on Friday, October 10, which is World Mental Health Day.
This won't be an easy ride for Dave, who admits he's more comfortable on stage than on a bicycle. The father and husband is mindful of his own fitness and wellbeing and hasn't been on a bike since he was a child. However, he's planning to vlog his journey and bring along his day job as a stand-up comic to give everyone a laugh along the way.
Dave said: "I've been involved with Action Mental Health for around a year now and I wanted to do something to help raise the awareness of the incredible work they do every single day. I haven't been on a bike since I was a child, so this is going to be a serious challenge for me – and my legs! However, hopefully the effort helps raise much needed funds for their services."
Jonny Smyth, Head of Fundraising and Communications at Action Mental Health, welcomed Dave's efforts. He said: "We're thrilled to have Dave on board as an ambassador and for championing this challenge in support of Action Mental Health. Not only will his cycle raise vital funds to help support our services, but it will also spark important conversations around mental health and hopefully remind people that help is available. We're calling on individuals, schools, workplaces and community groups to get involved whether that's by joining the virtual challenge, cheering Dave on, or making a donation."
People can support Dave's efforts by making direct donations online or by texting DAVEFIVE or DAVETEN to 70085. There are also fundraising opportunities available for those who want to sign up for individual or group cycle challenges. For more information, visit www.amh.org.uk or email fundraising@amh.org.uk
